Mr Lawrence at The London

With such a drool-worthy looking menu (and may I add, an exceptional location) Mr Lawrence has been near the top of my To Do list for quite some time. Situated on Beach Street looking over the water, Mr Lawrence draws in the Summer crowds with its outdoor seating, and the Winter crowds with its reputation for delicious Middle Eastern cuisine.

Situated in the iconic Port Melbourne venue "The London", with its bright blue bar, retro light fittings and indoor plants, Mr Lawrence has a casual, almost Moroccan inspired vibe.

Its Turkish Pizza's are about as iconic as its venue - offering $10 pizza specials on Monday nights. The spiced minced lamb, mint, yoghurt and almond pizza was exceptional - the lamb was juicy and well seasoned, the dough light and flaky and the presentation was rustic but still appealing - definitely a dish worth ordering.

The twice cooked pork belly with mashed potato, pickle salad and pomegranate molasses was nice, but not as impressive as the pizza - the salad was exceptional (light, zesty and full of flavour), however the pork was on the dry side and the mashed potato an odd accompaniment.

Unfortunately, the service was on the disappointing side. Repeatedly we had to wave down a waiter to ask for a drink, place our order and ask for the bill - all in a half filled restaurant.  That being said, it may have just been a bad night (perhaps someone called in sick?) and I'd be willing to give Mr Lawrence another try - especially if it means taking another shot at that delicious lamb Turkish Pizza.

Food: 3.5/5
Venue: 3.5/5
Service: 1/5
Total: 8/5
Verdict: like - get around to trying it at some point

92 Beach Street Port Melbourne